A History of Loneliness

by John Boyne

As the narrator, Father Odran Yates, examines and re-examines his life and relationships from the 1960s to 2011, he comes to understand how he may have (intentionally?) failed his family, friends and flock. A moving, disturbing story of systematic abuse, which includes controversial views on recent Popes.

Extract

'She was known as a bit of a goer, but himself mustn't have minded since he was marrying her regardless ... and I told them that many couples found it a great benefit to talk through some of the issues of marriage ... the importance of the ... well, you know the other business.''I don't think I'd feel qualified for any of that.''Sure why wouldn't you be qualified?' he asked, surprised. 'Weren't we trained for long enough?'